Athinas Street, one of the Greek capital's busiest thoroughfares, will close to traffic for 24 hours starting Saturday evening, transforming into an open-air festival of music, film, sports and cultural activities to mark World Car Free Day.
Mayor Charis Doukas is inviting residents and visitors to the third annual "Athinas Without Cars" event, running from Saturday evening through Sunday evening between Evripidou Street and Monastiraki.
"For 24 hours, without cars, we're making room for people, bicycles, play and culture," Mr. Doukas said, encouraging Athenians to experience one of the city's most central streets in a different way.
The festival opens Saturday at 8 p.m. with a Disco Street Party, followed by late-night outdoor screenings of classic car-chase films, including "Days of Thunder," "The Italian Job" and "Bullitt," running until 5:30 a.m.
Sunday's program spans activities for all ages: morning yoga, a Paralympic sports showcase led by Panathinaikos athletes, street art and graffiti workshops, face painting, mini-bike building for children, skateboarding lessons, and cycling tracks for kids as young as 2.
The day closes with a live broadcast of "Papazo's Balcony" from Ellinikos 93.2 radio, featuring performances by Pavlina Voulgaraki, Nina Mazani and other artists, celebrating the release of a new album.
City officials have implemented temporary traffic rerouting and modified bus routes for the event, while the Athens Metro will run 24 hours to accommodate visitors.
The festival is part of global World Car Free Day observances marked annually on Sept. 22.